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Wednesday, October 5, 2011

6 Tips for Shaking Hands

As long as I have been a school administrator, I’ve always felt it is important to teach children to shake hands and introduce themselves. I can’t tell you how many high school and college students I’ve met who had not mastered the art of shaking hands. Luckily I work at a school, StarShine Academy, where teaching children how to shake hands is valued.

So -- if you ever visit a StarShine School you will be greeted with a firm handshake, good eye contact and a smile. Here are a couple of my favorite greetings:

Welcome to StarShine Academy!

My name is Amanda.

When I grow up, I want to be a princess.

I am the ambassador to Egypt.

Welcome to StarShine Academy!

My name is Oscar.

When I grow up, I want to be Woody (from Toy Story).

I am the ambassador to England.

Welcome to StarShine Academy!

My name is Stephanie.

When I grow up, I want to be a doctor for kids.

I am the ambassador to Liberia.

Here are a couple of tips you can use when shaking hands and introducing yourself:

1.Hold the other persons hand firmly, but don’t squeeze too tight.

2.Maintain good eye contact.

3.Stand tall.

4.Speak clearly.

5.Smile.

6.Be yourself.

Remember first impressions are important

or as I like to tell my students, “Perception is Reality.”

We’re almost finished with our Kids Without Stuff Book – Inspirational Stories About Kids, Teachers, Volunteers and The Principal, and we’re looking for a fantastic publisher. Do you know one? Email us at jan@kidswithoutstuff.com. Thanks!